Breakneck Campground

Breakneck Campground, located at 1757 Cheeseman Road in Portersville, Pennsylvania, offers a rustic and scenic camping experience adjacent to McConnell's Mill State Park. This privately owned campground caters to a variety of campers with options ranging from primitive tent sites to RV accommodations and cozy cabins.

Accommodations & Amenities:

  • Site Types: Primitive tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and tent cabins.

  • Facilities: Modern bathrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, and ADA access.

  • Recreational Features: Sand volleyball court, fire pits, picnic tables, and access to nearby hiking trails.

  • Connectivity: Good Verizon coverage; AT&T and T-Mobile coverage may vary.

  • Pet Policy: Pets are welcome.

  • McConnell's Mill State Park: Offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic views.

Breakneck Campground Map

Facilities: Modern bathrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, and ADA access.

  • Yellow Arrow: Campground Entrance

  • Blue Arrow: Road to Eckert Bridge

  • Blue Area: Where camping is allowed.

  • Green Area: Day Parking

  • Red Area: Shower house for campers

  • Golden Area: Breakneck Lodge—a 1,500-square-foot post-and-beam structure with a covered deck—along with the surrounding area, serves as the hub for food, vendors, and entertainment during Slip Fest.

Cold Weather Camping Tips for Slip Fest

Slip Fest takes place in April, and if you're new to camping this time of year, be prepared—it can get cold at night. Whether you’re in a tent, car, or hammock, planning ahead can make the difference between a cozy night and a miserable one.

Gear Up for the Cold

  • Sleeping Bag: Bring a sleeping bag rated at least 10–20°F lower than the expected overnight temperature. Night temps often dip into the 30s at Slip Fest.

  • Sleeping Pad: A quality sleeping pad (preferably insulated) is essential—most heat loss comes from the cold ground. Consider layering two pads if needed.

  • Tent: Use a tent with a rainfly and good wind resistance. If possible, bring a smaller tent to conserve body heat.

  • Blankets: Extra fleece or wool blankets can help trap warmth. Some campers even use a hot water bottle in a sock at the foot of their sleeping bag for extra warmth.

Clothing Matters

  • Layers: Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, fleece or wool mid-layers, and a wind- and waterproof outer layer.

  • No Cotton: Avoid cotton—it traps moisture and will leave you freezing. Go with synthetics or wool.

  • Hat & Socks: A warm hat and dry wool socks are your best friends at night. Don’t be shy about sleeping in them.

  • Gloves and Buffs: Bring gloves and a neck gaiter or buff for wind protection and added warmth.

Pro Tips

  • Stay Dry: Change into dry clothes before bed. Even a little sweat can make you cold fast once you stop moving.

  • Eat Late: A warm, hearty meal before bed helps fuel your body heat.

  • Buddy System: Camp near friends—sharing hot drinks, campfires, and company makes the cold more bearable.

  • Plan for Wind & Rain: April weather can shift quickly—secure your tent well and bring a tarp or canopy for group shelter.

Slip Fest is about fun and community—don’t let cold nights catch you off guard. With the right gear and mindset, camping in the chill can be one of the best parts of the experience. Come prepared, and you’ll be warm enough to enjoy everything the weekend has to offer.